1. FC Köln will take on FC Schalke 04 on Sunday, 13:30 CEST at the VELTINS-Arena. Head coach, Gerhard Struber and Head of Football, Thomas Kessler spoke at the press conference ahead of the game. Here are the most important quotes from the presser.
Gerhard Struber spoke about…
…captain Timo Hübers: “Timo was unable to train and is a doubt for Sunday. We are hoping for the best, so that he can train tomorrow. Should he miss out, then we’ll also decide who’ll replace him.”
…FC Schalke 04: “The team have a lot of individual quality and many new players. They have won matches through that moment of class. They have power and tempo on the counter and players in attack that can get past the last line with speed and dynamic. We are expecting an atmosphere that will test us to the max. We’ll have to give everything to bring the three points back to Köln.”
…the meaning of the last win: “Such performances and results help to build confidence and the belief to win as well. It is now about focussing fully on the next game, to keep going and produce another performance. It is decisive that we are able to focus on every game for what it’s worth and stay grounded. We know that we have to give everything in order to leave the pitch as winners.”
…the buzz of the atmosphere: “I’m really looking forward to the game. In terms of atmosphere, it’s a game that the Bundeslgia deserves. Two traditional clubs meet and we’ll have 6,000 fans there. I am convinced that, with our way of playing, passion and bravery, we can achieve a lot.”
…Denis Huseinbasic: “He is important for us in both directions. We want to be controlled and dominant, and he has taken on a key role and has a lot of qualities to do that. He has a good feel for positioning, his technical ability, dribbling and has a good shot. He can also set the tone when we press and is football smart. He helps us already but is also open to take the next step.”
Thomas Kessler spoke about…
…Deadline Day: “It’s part of our job that we keep an eye on what other clubs do. We are happy with our squad and have complete trust in our players. At this moment in time – at 13:30 CEST – there is no news.”
…Mark Uth: “The plan was that he returned to training this week. The final few tests showed that he just wasn’t quite ready. We are working with him individually. We can’t give an exact time frame as to when he’ll be back in team training.”
…Christoph Daum’s passing: “I have a lot of memories with him. He gave me my chance in the first-team. It’s a special connection and that’s one of the reasons I was so sad as he passed away.”
